Adoption Therapists in San Diego, CA
Bloom Family Therapy | Erica M. Topete, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I have extensive experience and passion working with individuals that struggle with anxiety, adoption, depression, women's issues, premarital counseling, parent-child issues, and low self-esteem.
Life is too short to settle and I strongly believe everyone has the capacity to live a fulfilling life. We were molded and created to live in relationship with one another as well as enjoy every season of it, be it at mountain tops or through valley lows. However, sometimes it is difficult to notice the bright side, but do not worry - you’re not alone. If you desire to take that step and move towards love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control, or perhaps a deeper connection with your partner, your children and overall relationships with others then you have come to the right place.
I have extensive experience and passion working with individuals that struggle with anxiety, adoption, depression, women's issues, premarital counseling, parent-child issues, and low self-esteem.
Life is too short to settle and I strongly believe everyone has the capacity to live a fulfilling life. We were molded and created to live in relationship with one another as well as enjoy every season of it, be it at mountain tops or through valley lows. However, sometimes it is difficult to notice the bright side, but do not worry - you’re not alone. If you desire to take that step and move towards love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control, or perhaps a deeper connection with your partner, your children and overall relationships with others then you have come to the right place.
I am a client-centered, trauma- and attachment-informed, adoption-competent (Accredited TAC-trained) clinician. I have worked with and in the child welfare system for nearly 13 years. My focus is assisting families and youth going through the adoption process and providing therapeutic support post- adoption. I work comfortably with both youth and adults and family sessions as needed.
I am a client-centered, trauma- and attachment-informed, adoption-competent (Accredited TAC-trained) clinician. I have worked with and in the child welfare system for nearly 13 years. My focus is assisting families and youth going through the adoption process and providing therapeutic support post- adoption. I work comfortably with both youth and adults and family sessions as needed.
More specifically, I have training and focused experience with individuals in the adoption constellation, from immigrant families, and/or immigrants themselves.
Clients I work with often feel in-between jobs, relationships, cultures, or identities. This “in-between” feeling can show up as depression, anxiety, or difficulties with relationships and indecisiveness. I believe that peace and stability comes from finding comfort in the “in-between” and not forcing yourself out. I offer space for individuals to learn more about themselves and how they show up in the many roles in their lives so they can be more themselves in all parts of their lives. (I meet with virtually with clients residing in California and Illinois).
More specifically, I have training and focused experience with individuals in the adoption constellation, from immigrant families, and/or immigrants themselves.
Clients I work with often feel in-between jobs, relationships, cultures, or identities. This “in-between” feeling can show up as depression, anxiety, or difficulties with relationships and indecisiveness. I believe that peace and stability comes from finding comfort in the “in-between” and not forcing yourself out. I offer space for individuals to learn more about themselves and how they show up in the many roles in their lives so they can be more themselves in all parts of their lives. (I meet with virtually with clients residing in California and Illinois).
Sofia Fani Mossa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
Are you a caregiver of a loved one diagnosed with dementia? Are you going through multicultural family and relationship dynamics? Are you seeking support and guidance in your foster care or adoption journey? With my 18 years of experience with these considerations, I bring positive, genuine and sincere support to my clinical practice. My goal in therapy is to provide a safe, trusting and supportive space where together we can bring awareness, identify solutions and create balance in your life.
Are you a caregiver of a loved one diagnosed with dementia? Are you going through multicultural family and relationship dynamics? Are you seeking support and guidance in your foster care or adoption journey? With my 18 years of experience with these considerations, I bring positive, genuine and sincere support to my clinical practice. My goal in therapy is to provide a safe, trusting and supportive space where together we can bring awareness, identify solutions and create balance in your life.
Jaimi S Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116 (Online Only)
I am specializing in motherhood, be that through adoption, IVF, grief, & loss, or selecting termination.
Here is what I believe: Everyone needs an objective person to help support and guide them through life’s challenges, transitions and hurdles. I believe the most important aspect of therapy is a trusting, nonjudgmental, and compassionate relationship with your therapist; therapy should feel safe, and provide you relief. I enjoy working with people from different background to help them discover their true self and overcoming the obstacles that may obscure their journey to happiness and self-fulfillment. I utilize humanistic mindful approaches to support wellness. I have availability in evening for couples and individuals.
I am specializing in motherhood, be that through adoption, IVF, grief, & loss, or selecting termination.
Here is what I believe: Everyone needs an objective person to help support and guide them through life’s challenges, transitions and hurdles. I believe the most important aspect of therapy is a trusting, nonjudgmental, and compassionate relationship with your therapist; therapy should feel safe, and provide you relief. I enjoy working with people from different background to help them discover their true self and overcoming the obstacles that may obscure their journey to happiness and self-fulfillment. I utilize humanistic mindful approaches to support wellness. I have availability in evening for couples and individuals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and have a dual speciality in Clinical Psychology and Organizational Psychology. I provide Bilingual English/Spanish therapy to adults, in individual, couples, and family therapy. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, cultural and identity difficulties, adoption issues, relationship hardships, and chronic stress. I help individuals work through challenges related to perfectionism, personal balance, emotion regulation, assertive communication, self-esteem, caregiving, and major life changes.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and have a dual speciality in Clinical Psychology and Organizational Psychology. I provide Bilingual English/Spanish therapy to adults, in individual, couples, and family therapy. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, cultural and identity difficulties, adoption issues, relationship hardships, and chronic stress. I help individuals work through challenges related to perfectionism, personal balance, emotion regulation, assertive communication, self-esteem, caregiving, and major life changes.
Joelle Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, C, S, W
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116 (Online Only)
I am currently at capacity for therapy client's. There are many ways to access mental health information these days from blogs, vlogs, Instagram to Tik-Tok. If you are in need of help for your mental wellness I encourage you to seek a skilled professional to guide you. I have nearly 30 years of experience counseling individuals and families from diverse backgrounds through life events such as family disruption, adoption, infertility, chronic illness and bereavement. I am prepared to help you navigate life’s transitions and challenges with compassion and hope.
I am currently at capacity for therapy client's. There are many ways to access mental health information these days from blogs, vlogs, Instagram to Tik-Tok. If you are in need of help for your mental wellness I encourage you to seek a skilled professional to guide you. I have nearly 30 years of experience counseling individuals and families from diverse backgrounds through life events such as family disruption, adoption, infertility, chronic illness and bereavement. I am prepared to help you navigate life’s transitions and challenges with compassion and hope.
Healing is an integral part of our journeys, and everyone deserves to live with a sense of peace & purpose. Yet many find it difficult to reflect on whether they are living in alignment with themselves and what they truly value. I have worked alongside individuals from all walks of life navigating through addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, and various life transitions. I also help adults and couples navigate through their journeys of infertility, pregnancy, adoption, and fostering. I would love to meet you, learn about you, and walk this journey with you as you find your path towards healing through peace & purpose.
Healing is an integral part of our journeys, and everyone deserves to live with a sense of peace & purpose. Yet many find it difficult to reflect on whether they are living in alignment with themselves and what they truly value. I have worked alongside individuals from all walks of life navigating through addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, and various life transitions. I also help adults and couples navigate through their journeys of infertility, pregnancy, adoption, and fostering. I would love to meet you, learn about you, and walk this journey with you as you find your path towards healing through peace & purpose.
Morgan Brown, CADC-I | Bloom Family Therapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
At Bloom Therapy, I specialize in the areas of adoption, justice-involved youth and co-occurring disorders as they relate to underlying causes of substance use disorders.
With a warm and empathetic approach, my hopes are to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore underlying causes of addiction. Together we will create personalized coping strategies for a healthy tomorrow. My passion lies with teens and young adults who struggle with substance use as I relate to this population on a deep level.
At Bloom Therapy, I specialize in the areas of adoption, justice-involved youth and co-occurring disorders as they relate to underlying causes of substance use disorders.
With a warm and empathetic approach, my hopes are to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore underlying causes of addiction. Together we will create personalized coping strategies for a healthy tomorrow. My passion lies with teens and young adults who struggle with substance use as I relate to this population on a deep level.
Leslie A. Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
I myself am a child of adoption, and cherish my Indigenous American heritage.
I congratulate you on this, possibly your first step in your journey to personal health and healing. I know it's a daunting task, and I would be pleased to join you on this journey. Long before I became a psychotherapist, I was always the friend that people would turn to for advice and guidance. I guess maybe my humor and empathy made me an ideal confidante. I look forward to applying my innate sense of humor and my strong feelings of empathy, along with my professional training and experience to walk with you down your path.
I myself am a child of adoption, and cherish my Indigenous American heritage.
I congratulate you on this, possibly your first step in your journey to personal health and healing. I know it's a daunting task, and I would be pleased to join you on this journey. Long before I became a psychotherapist, I was always the friend that people would turn to for advice and guidance. I guess maybe my humor and empathy made me an ideal confidante. I look forward to applying my innate sense of humor and my strong feelings of empathy, along with my professional training and experience to walk with you down your path.
Amanda Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122 (Online Only)
If you and your partner are experiencing the challenges of adoption or the depths of grief, you're not alone.
In my practice, I specialize in assisting couples navigating the emotional complexities of intimate relationships. These experiences, unique in their impact and intensity, require a sensitive and nuanced approach. Utilizing Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method, I strive to create a supportive space where couples can explore their feelings, strengthen their connection, and develop resilience. These evidence-based methods not only help in understanding and processing emotions but also in building a deeper, more meaningful bond, paving the way for healing and growth.
If you and your partner are experiencing the challenges of adoption or the depths of grief, you're not alone.
In my practice, I specialize in assisting couples navigating the emotional complexities of intimate relationships. These experiences, unique in their impact and intensity, require a sensitive and nuanced approach. Utilizing Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method, I strive to create a supportive space where couples can explore their feelings, strengthen their connection, and develop resilience. These evidence-based methods not only help in understanding and processing emotions but also in building a deeper, more meaningful bond, paving the way for healing and growth.
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I am experienced with a variety of issues, such as anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, stress, depression, relationships, self-esteem, adoption, loss, and grief.
Making the decision to seek therapy is a courageous one. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I recognize that you are the expert on your life and welcome the opportunity to work together to explore your needs, challenges, and opportunities for growth and healing.
I am experienced with a variety of issues, such as anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, stress, depression, relationships, self-esteem, adoption, loss, and grief.
Making the decision to seek therapy is a courageous one. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I recognize that you are the expert on your life and welcome the opportunity to work together to explore your needs, challenges, and opportunities for growth and healing.
Areas of expertise: trauma, international adjustment, identity, PTSD, anxiety, depression, life/developmental transitions, foster/post- adoption, parenting, and clients who have not responded to previous treatments.
Stress, trauma, disconnection, transition, stuckness. These are extremely difficult human experiences. Yet, our societies, cultures, and learned responses often tell us to move on, hide, or push away our real experiences. Having worked in a variety of international, educational, and clinical settings, I’ve been privileged to witness how exploring one’s challenges and pain can provide meaning, healing, and growth. Grounded in both the science and personalized applications of psychology and therapy, I believe the earlier we can process and make meaning of our experiences, the more meaningful life opportunities await.
Areas of expertise: trauma, international adjustment, identity, PTSD, anxiety, depression, life/developmental transitions, foster/post- adoption, parenting, and clients who have not responded to previous treatments.
Stress, trauma, disconnection, transition, stuckness. These are extremely difficult human experiences. Yet, our societies, cultures, and learned responses often tell us to move on, hide, or push away our real experiences. Having worked in a variety of international, educational, and clinical settings, I’ve been privileged to witness how exploring one’s challenges and pain can provide meaning, healing, and growth. Grounded in both the science and personalized applications of psychology and therapy, I believe the earlier we can process and make meaning of our experiences, the more meaningful life opportunities await.
Hi, I'm Vanessa! My name is Vanessa Evans Vovk, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) located in Modesto, CA; however, I work with clients throughout California via telehealth. I work with clients in varying phases of life, from childhood through adulthood. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, stress, depression, relationships, adoption, foster care, and life transition, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy, with a strengths-based approach, in order to elicit progress and positive feelings within my client's life.
Hi, I'm Vanessa! My name is Vanessa Evans Vovk, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) located in Modesto, CA; however, I work with clients throughout California via telehealth. I work with clients in varying phases of life, from childhood through adulthood. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, stress, depression, relationships, adoption, foster care, and life transition, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy, with a strengths-based approach, in order to elicit progress and positive feelings within my client's life.
Tanya Ridaura, LPCC, NCC | Bloom Family Therapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
I am a passionate Counselor who has experience working with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, interpersonal challenges, parent-child issues, anger management, stress, trauma and consequences of trauma, adoption and victims of domestic violence.
I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is passionate about joining you through this new journey into your best self. I truly believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and working together to overcome your challenges. My approach is tailored to help you regain control of your life and empower you to connect to your authentic self.
I am a passionate Counselor who has experience working with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, interpersonal challenges, parent-child issues, anger management, stress, trauma and consequences of trauma, adoption and victims of domestic violence.
I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is passionate about joining you through this new journey into your best self. I truly believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and working together to overcome your challenges. My approach is tailored to help you regain control of your life and empower you to connect to your authentic self.
, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorders; and domestic violence, child abuse, divorce, co-parenting and adoption).
I love the work I do, although it involves dealing with people's painful life events and dynamics. I strongly believe in change. I am privileged because daily I witness our human capacity for healing and growth. My ideal client is the one ready to face truth, find hope and strength to change his or her life circumstances. My style, training, and professional experience emphasize understanding culture, working in the context of family and community, completing treatment goals, developing prevention plans and understanding our individual and family histories (short and long term treatment according to family or individual's needs).
, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorders; and domestic violence, child abuse, divorce, co-parenting and adoption).
I love the work I do, although it involves dealing with people's painful life events and dynamics. I strongly believe in change. I am privileged because daily I witness our human capacity for healing and growth. My ideal client is the one ready to face truth, find hope and strength to change his or her life circumstances. My style, training, and professional experience emphasize understanding culture, working in the context of family and community, completing treatment goals, developing prevention plans and understanding our individual and family histories (short and long term treatment according to family or individual's needs).
Christina Brouwer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
Hello, I'm Christina. I care deeply about my clients and try to create an affirming space for all. I specialize in working with families, children, teens, and young adults. I enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community and people experiencing trauma disorders, anxiety, depression, adoption and attachment issues, behavioral challenges, and other life and relationship stressors. My approach is trauma-informed and strength-based. I help my clients work toward their goals while feeling safe and connected with themselves and others.
Hello, I'm Christina. I care deeply about my clients and try to create an affirming space for all. I specialize in working with families, children, teens, and young adults. I enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community and people experiencing trauma disorders, anxiety, depression, adoption and attachment issues, behavioral challenges, and other life and relationship stressors. My approach is trauma-informed and strength-based. I help my clients work toward their goals while feeling safe and connected with themselves and others.
I am well versed in a variety of treatment approaches and have a diverse clinical background in different areas including treatment of: Depression and Anxiety, Childhood Physical and Sexual Abuse/ Incest, PTSD, Domestic Violence,Infidelity Issues, Eating Disorder, and Adoption.
"In all chaos there is a cosmos, in all disorder a secret order.” I truly believe that people are not what happened to them. They are what they choose to become. Therapy is a safe and private space in which you are able to deepen your understanding of your capabilities and choices you can make in life. Through providing positive and feedbacks, I will assist you to acquire a healthy set of coping skills and gain more insight about your psychology. This insight will eventually “unstuck” you from repeating unhealthy behaviors by breaking old patterns and developing new ones.
I am well versed in a variety of treatment approaches and have a diverse clinical background in different areas including treatment of: Depression and Anxiety, Childhood Physical and Sexual Abuse/ Incest, PTSD, Domestic Violence,Infidelity Issues, Eating Disorder, and Adoption.
"In all chaos there is a cosmos, in all disorder a secret order.” I truly believe that people are not what happened to them. They are what they choose to become. Therapy is a safe and private space in which you are able to deepen your understanding of your capabilities and choices you can make in life. Through providing positive and feedbacks, I will assist you to acquire a healthy set of coping skills and gain more insight about your psychology. This insight will eventually “unstuck” you from repeating unhealthy behaviors by breaking old patterns and developing new ones.
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre- adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre- adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
My areas of focus are trauma, anxiety, grief, behavioral issues, anger management, social skills, self-esteem, family dynamics, personal growth, high-stress environments, adoption, and medical patient/caregiver support.
My goal in sessions is for clients to feel self-aware, empowered, and grounded in who they are to better connect with the person they want to become. This therapeutic approach can help address anxiety symptoms, lack of identity, pressured performance, depression, and lack of communication skills. I, Jennifer Kuchler LMFT 138153, am committed to creating an environment for clients to feel safe and comfortable to open up about difficult topics.
My areas of focus are trauma, anxiety, grief, behavioral issues, anger management, social skills, self-esteem, family dynamics, personal growth, high-stress environments, adoption, and medical patient/caregiver support.
My goal in sessions is for clients to feel self-aware, empowered, and grounded in who they are to better connect with the person they want to become. This therapeutic approach can help address anxiety symptoms, lack of identity, pressured performance, depression, and lack of communication skills. I, Jennifer Kuchler LMFT 138153, am committed to creating an environment for clients to feel safe and comfortable to open up about difficult topics.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Chula Vista
- Del Mar
- El Cajon
- Encinitas
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- National City
- Poway
- Rancho Santa Fe
- Santee
- Solana Beach
- Spring Valley
Adoption Therapists
Does my adopted child need therapy?
Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioral or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.
When should adoptive parents seek therapy?
Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioral, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.
Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?
Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.
What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?
A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.